COEYMANS — School officials have quashed a rumor that a student at Ravena Coeymans Selkirk High School planned to take a gun to school, chalking up the threat to a conversation that became distorted as it made its way around the school.

Last week, word circulated in the school that at least one student intended to take a gun to the campus on Dec. 21, the day that some believe the Mayans predicted the world will end.

An investigation by the school quickly revealed that two students had merely been discussing Second Amendment rights and potential changes to restrict gun ownership. Another student overheard the comments and "the game of telephone began from there," according to the school.

Police were notified of the threat, as a precaution. In order to "reassure the public," the Coeymans Police Department said it will station officers at the school on Dec. 21.

"Nothing is more important than the safety and security of our children," Chief Gregory Darlington said in a statement.

Principal Brian Bailey also sent emails to and called parents to reiterate school security protocols and reassure families that there was no evidence of threat from the rumors.

"The safety, security and education of our students remain our priority at all times," said Interim Superintendent Alan McCartney in a statement to parents. "We will always err on the side of caution when student safety is concerned."